NextGen California Responds to Multistate Lawsuit Against the Federal Administration for Illegally Withholding Food Assistance Benefits

NextGen California Responds to Multistate Lawsuit Against the Federal Administration for Illegally Withholding Food Assistance Benefits

For Immediate Release: October 29, 2025

Contacts: Tyler Bushnell, tyler.bushnell@nextgenpolicy.org
Tiffany Germain, tiffany.germain@nextgenpolicy.org

California joins 24 other states in filing suit against the Federal Administration for withholding food assistance benefits during the ongoing government shutdown

SACRAMENTO – NextGen California – a nonprofit organization that fights to create a more equitable, prosperous, climate resilient, and food secure California for all – is in support of the lawsuit filed this week by California and 24 other states in response to the illegal withholding of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits by the federal administration.

Approximately 5.5 million Californians rely on food assistance benefits provided by the federal SNAP program – called Calfresh in California – to help cover the high cost of groceries and ensure their families don’t go hungry. Amid the ongoing federal government shutdown, the current federal administration is unlawfully withholding food assistance benefits, creating what food banks and experts are calling a “man-made disaster” at a time when food banks are experiencing their highest demand. This decision marks the first time in the history of federal government shutdowns that SNAP benefits have been withheld, creating widespread food insecurity for and jeopardizing the economic well-being of millions of households across the country. NextGen California supports the multi-state lawsuit that has been filed by roughly two dozen states to require and defend access to this critical social service lifeline. 

Statement from NextGen California’s Policy Advisor, Tiffany Germain:

“Governor Newsom’s and Attorney General Bonta’s leadership in challenging the current Administration’s unlawful withholding of food assistance benefits is both courageous and critical,” said Tiffany Germain, Policy Advisor for NextGen California. “Millions of California families rely on CalFresh to put food on the table, and withholding access to these benefits will push many in our communities into extreme hunger and hardship. At this key moment, it’s imperative for state leaders, advocates, and concerned citizens to work together to protect our communities in the fight against food insecurity.”

NextGen California encourages all individuals and families in California impacted by the government shutdown to take advantage of the resources available for households impacted by the withholding of SNAP:

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NextGen California is a nonprofit advocacy organization that breaks down barriers and rebalances power in the State Capitol on behalf of all Californians.